At least 400,000 people have visited San Salvador’s historic downtown during the first two days of the August holiday period, according to Adriana Larín, director of the Historic Center Authority (APLAN). Speaking on the Diálogo 21 program, Larín noted that the Festival Latido alone attracted 150,000 visitors on Saturday. “One of the most important outcomes of these kinds of events is the economic spillover. Businesses were packed and thrilled to see this flow of people,” she said.
The area is expected to welcome 700,000 tourists by the end of the vacation period, contributing to the estimated two million Salvadorans participating in domestic tourism. The historic downtown has become a central hub for new investments following reordering efforts, including the removal of street vendors and infrastructure renovations.
So far, 30 new businesses—funded by both local and international investors—have opened in the area. “In terms of gastronomy, Salvadorans are leading strongly. The restaurant concepts may have some international influence,” Larín explained.
In just the past two months, seven new food businesses have opened, including Taquería Los Sánchez, which began as a street cart and recently invested $360,000 in a new location on Delgado Street, near the Excuartel market. Other local investments include La Espada with $180,000 from Salvadorans in Spain, Maestro Taquero with $87,000, Café del Centro with $125,000, and the artisanal bakery Pastelo with $85,000.
The historic center remains one of the most visited destinations in El Salvador, both by locals and foreign tourists. A study by the Mónica Herrera School found that 42% of Salvadorans returning from the U.S. are interested in exploring this part of the capital. APLAN currently oversees 80 city blocks declared as cultural and tourist areas, with regulations guiding land use and investment.